Pubdate: Thu, 21 Mar 2002 Source: Decatur Daily (AL) Copyright: 2002 The Decatur Daily Contact: http://www.decaturdaily.com/decaturdaily/index.shtml Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/696 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Testing) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) PERCEPTIONS ARE OFTEN WORSE THAN THE TRUTH Hartselle school officials don't want to overreact to the drug-testing controversy over two baseball players who passed out in school, but later tested negative for use of any illegal substance. Superintendent Lee Hartsell is taking the middle road in handling the situation and recommending that the school board appoint a committee to look at developing a drug-testing policy. That's not exactly a bold move, yet it may be the best one, given the known facts in the case and the rumors. Stonewalling, by refusing to concede the possibility of some students using drugs or that better procedures may be needed, would not be a proper response. Neither would giving in to any motivation for keeping the controversy alive a good solution. City Councilman Allen Stoner questioned how the school officials handled the player situation, and the police chief, brought into the controversy a week after the incident, declined to get involved in validating the steps taken after the students collapsed. Developing a drug-testing policy can be tricky, and, as the superintendent said, expensive. But with its credibility questioned, the school board needs to take action to reassure the public. Hartselle schools attract students because of their reputation for excellence. Allowing unfounded rumors about an isolated incident to continue, or refusing to deal with reality, will tarnish that good image. - --- MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager